The 10 Most Scariest Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows
Secondary Glazing For Sash Windows
Many homeowners are unable build new double-glazed windows to their homes due to financial constraints or because they live in listed buildings that restrict any exterior changes.
Secondary glazing is an excellent alternative for sash window and can be installed in a variety of ways.
It's an additional glass pane inside the window frame that stops cold air from getting into your home, while offering insulation and noise reduction.
Fixed Inserts
There are a variety of styles of secondary glazing for sash windows. Each has its own set of benefits, from increased security to less condensation. Which is the best choice for you?
The basic premise of secondary glazing is fitting an additional glass pane within the window frame. This adds an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing your home, enhancing its energy efficiency.
It's not always feasible to install double-glazed windows especially if your home is an listed property or you are governed by strict planning regulations dictating what can and can't be done to your exterior.
In these situations secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative that can be set up with relative ease. It's also a popular choice for those who want to modernize their old home without having to take down the original windows in sash and replace them with new ones.
There are a number of different systems available for secondary glazing sash windows, all of that can be adapted to fit your existing frame. Proprietary systems are generally made of painted aluminum frames that fit the existing bead depth on a sash window. This allows sills and shutters to be retained.
These can be fitted using a variety of methods for installation, including glazing clips or Velcro. These types of units look more attractive than screw-fixed ones and are ideally suited to windows that do not require to be opened frequently. Alternatively, you can opt for a fixed lift-out unit, which can be lifted out and then put back in place with relative ease, allowing your windows to be opened.
Horizontal Sliders
Horizontal Sliders offer excellent thermal insulation and are the most well-known solution for improving existing sash windows. They are also extremely discreet and ideal for historic buildings, conservation areas & listed properties. In most cases, they are installed without having access to the outside since they are operated from the inside.
They can be operated manually and can be left open or partially closed for ventilation. They are effective in preventing draughts, and they also filter harmful UV light. In summer they can be paired with a flyscreen in order to keep insects out and mosquitoes.
Trackglaze horizontal sliding systems offer all the benefits of double glazing for the original sash window. It is comprised of pvc sash windows double sliding tracks that run across all four sides of the cavity with the simple bristle seal that is placed around each glass sheet, and finger pull angle handles that act as a handle and reduce bowing. It comes in kits of 1m or 2m of track and angle that can be stacked together to create larger spans.
The acoustic advantages of secondary glazing are significant and can dramatically reduce noise from outside, particularly the airport, rail and road traffic. The inclusion of laminated glass or toughened glasses further enhances the acoustic performance. Standard secondary glazing reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass can deliver even more impressive levels of acoustic performance.
It can boost the efficiency of your home by keeping it warmer for longer and reducing reliance on central heating. It is much cheaper than replacing your original sash windows and can be installed without the need to remove the window or door frame.
Vertical Sliders
Secondary glazing is an affordable option that is usually more manageable than a complete window replacement. It's also suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's the ideal option to upgrade windows made of sash in Suffolk & Essex with modern insulation benefits while keeping the traditional look of older homes.
Vertical Sliders were developed for sash window applications in which hinged panels from the standard range are not suitable. They come with two secondary double glazing for sash windows sashes that are secured with one over the other, within an outer frame. They are supported by strong spring balances to allow for easy movement. The system can be placed on the inside of an existing window to ensure more efficient thermal performance or equipped with a cavity between the glass and the frame to maximize acoustic properties.
They can be fitted with a variety of stops and handles to accommodate the preferences of the homeowner by allowing the bottom or top pane to allow for ventilation or secured in a closed position for added security. They can also be fitted with an insulating bristle sealing device to prevent drafts.
Imagine a vertical slider with 'Choices' secondary glazing comes with the same authentic wood detailing you'd expect from an antique window treatment. It's available in an array of colours to match your existing sash. It's almost impossible to tell apart from the original sash window with details such as sash horns & traditional butt joints included in the design. It's available in an extensive selection of sizes and will accept glass up to 6.8mm to add insulation to prevent heat loss. The tilt-in option permits the sashes of each window to be hinged inwards on safety stays to facilitate cleaning.
Hinged Casement
Our single-pane secondary glazing is able to be positioned on sash windows in any style including traditional box sash and casement. Our hinged units are equipped with a keylock handle, and are manufactured with multi-point locking. This ensures that the glazed panel is locked securely in place and is pulled tight to the outer frame, creating a seal to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows are available either top or side-hung and are also available as double-glazed. Our double-glazed windows provide enhanced audio-acoustic performance. They are available in 43dB, 47dB or 51dB.
Casement windows are able open to the outside and catch breezes at various angles. This is different from a the horizontal sash window which has movable sashes within the frame, which slide horizontally. They can be opened from the top and bottom for controlled airflow. They also improve airflow, and offer a fantastic alternative to traditional sash windows.
They are commonly employed in modern homes since they offer a few "sightlines" and unobstructed views. However, they can also be incorporated into listed properties because they don't require transoms or mullions. They can also be utilized in hard-to-reach places as they are easily opened by turning a handle.
This kind of window could be a drawback since it could limit the use of certain window coverings. They are difficult to clean since they open outwards. They could also require regular maintenance and service.
Lift Out Windows
Secondary glazing can be set up in a variety of ways and the cost will vary according to the thickness, type and materials you select for your frames and panes. uPVC windows are usually the most affordable, followed by aluminium and then wooden sash window window frames. Specialized glass may also increase the cost, as well as any extra features, such as security or sound reduction.
Another aspect that can affect the cost is the complexity of the installation. The more complex the project, the longer and more labor it will require. This also applies to heritage properties with more complex sash window repair windows, which require specialized knowledge and expertise.
The best way to start is to assess the condition of your current windows. You can get a precise estimate of the cost by having them examined by professionals.
In general, secondary glazing has an insignificant impact on the look of your home. This is thanks to the fact that the modern FINEO double glazing has sleek and subtle frames, meaning you can achieve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.
A popular choice of secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which provides easy access to your existing sash windows for cleaning or ventilation. These are also available with a tilt feature which can be activated by releasing the catch and then lifting the secondary glazing panel vertically to a specified level. This is perfect for windows that aren't opened very often. It can be used to provide air conditioning access to bay windows. You can use them to open the middle sash in a traditional sash Bay Window to create a more symmetrical appearance.